Nigeria vs South Africa: Finidi George Calls for Calm As NFF Set to Meet Michael Olise

• Michael Olise was dropped from the French national team heading to the 2024 Euros
• The 22-year-old is eligible to play for France, England, Nigeria and Algeria at senior level
• NFF officials are reportedly set to meet with the winger to convince him to play for Nigeria

In a desperate move to ensure only the best legs represent the Super Eagles, officials of the Nigeria Football Federation are set to meet Crystal Palace star, Michael Olise.

Efforts are being made to convince the incredible winger to embrace Nigeria over European nation France.

Michael Akpovie Olise was born in England to a Nigerian father and a French-Algerian mother, and he is eligible to represent France, Algeria, England or Nigeria in international football.

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He has already represented France youth teams at U18 and U21 level, but the 22-year-old is still eligible to switch allegiance at the senior level.

Nigerian outlet, Guardian reports that the NFF is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that Olise abandons his plans to play for Les Bleus.

The former Chelsea youth player was dropped from the French squad heading to the Euros by manager Didier Deschamps. A source said:

“The NFF, under the watchful eyes of President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, is bent on ensuring that only the best play for Nigeria.

"That is why I can confidently tell you that the board is working around the clock to arrange talks with Michael Olise sooner than expected.

“Ex-President Amaju Pinnick tried his best to bring in Olise and Eberechi Eze. The current board won’t give up on that dream.”

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Meanwhile, Super Eagles coach, Finidi George, who has named his provisional squad for the all important FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin says he is bent on luring more talented players with dual nationality to the senior national team.

The former Enyimba of Aba manager, however, cautioned that it takes a lot of procedures before such a move is approved by FIFA.

Finidi invites 23 for World Cup qualifiers

Sports Brief earlier reported that Finidi George announced a 23-player squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

The roster features a mix of experienced veterans and rising youngsters as the West African nation looks to secure its spot on the global stage.

The squad boasts several standout performers from the recent 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), including the likes of Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.